Uzbekistan is developing its academic links with China as officials consider the option of opening a branch of the renowned Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT) in Tashkent.
The development follows a series of deals signed during a visit by a delegation of Uzbekistan's Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation to China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region between April 28 and 30.
As reported by the ministry's press service, the delegation held a series of meetings to enhance bilateral academic cooperation, introduce joint research projects, and promote technology transfer.
The most significant development was the negotiation over the establishment of a BIT campus in Tashkent. If approved, the branch would accommodate five priority faculties: computer science, mechanical and automotive engineering, green energy, big data and artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
Along with this project, several partnerships were cemented on the trip:
A technology transfer center will be opened in collaboration with a UN trade and development expert and Space Techtronic Industries Services (Shenzhen) representatives.
Exchange programs for academic purposes will be created with Xinjiang Beixin Road & Bridge Group, furthering mobility and collaborative learning.
In collaboration with Tianfeng Xinjiang Agricultural Science and Technology Company, a food safety laboratory center will be established.
Scientific research in agriculture and a new idea of "Uzbek-Chinese Landscape Design" will be developed through cooperation with Tianjin Agricultural University.
Student exchange programs are being discussed between Chan'an University and the Tashkent Institute of Chemical Technology's Yangiyer branch as well as other Uzbek institutions, with an intention to enroll 30 students in each of four bachelor's programs.
In January 2024, 70 cooperation agreements were signed by Uzbek and Chinese universities, five of which were aimed at joint educational programs.
In March 2025, Finance Interconnect Holdings considered the creation of international-standard retraining and professional development programs for green energy, agriculture, ICT, and tourism specialists. The company also intends to open a service center to prepare Uzbek citizens for academic and professional growth.
